Obstetric Pharmacology

Presenter: Catherine M. Stika, MD, Northwestern University

Introduction

Obstetric pharmacology is a relatively new field that focuses on pregnancy as a special population in terms of pharmacokinetics. This module describes changes in hormones and other factors in pregnancy that are of importance in prescribing and explains the primary pharmacokinetic changes that occur during pregnancy affecting amoxicillin and digoxin. It also explains the effects of pregnancy on the hepatic metabolism of medications used during pregnancy, including lamotrigine and others, and why the net effect of pregnancy changes is not always predictable.

Length of Module: 45 minutes 37 seconds

How to Use the Module

Begin by completing the self-assessment. This will determine your current level of understanding about ADRs.

When you have completed all steps, it is recommended that you return to the self-assessment and test your knowledge again.

About the Presenter

Catherine S. Stika, MD, an expert in obstetric-fetal pharmacology, is on the medical faculty at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine. She received her MD at the State University of New York at Syracuse Medical University and completed residency at Michael Reese Hospital and Medical Center. Dr. Stika is the Clinical Project Lead at Northwestern’s Obstetric-Fetal Pharmacology Research Center. She is board-certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology and has published extensively on a variety of topics related to pharmacology and obstetrics.